The blogmaster has no dog in this fight. The quality of output from media houses and their practitioners is already below average; to lose someone with the broadcast acumen of Ronnie Clarke is beyond regrettable. That said, no matter how talented the employee, the organisation’s code of conduct is the rulebook that governs employer-employee relationships.
Many pride themselves on being multi-talented—a teacher can be an author, a lawyer a calypsonian, a banker a gospel singer. But in the case of Ronnie Clarke, a radio Program Director—the person who decides what voices reach the airwaves—who also steps onto the national stage to sing songs of import, sometimes referencing prominent Barbadians, the question must be asked: where does artistic license end and professional responsibility begin? In Clarke’s case, it’s not as straightforward as some might think.
Some will argue there’s no issue. Crop Over is cultural, and every Barbadian has the right to artistic expression. But Clarke’s role at Starcom is not just another job—it’s a platform that shapes national conversation. He was in a position to influence public perception of the festival while also competing as a performer. The line clearly became blurred. If his song names a public figure, will listeners interpret it as his personal view or that of Starcom? If the station covers the festival, who ensures fairness when its Program Director is in the lineup?
This is not about muzzling creativity. Barbados has long celebrated the calypsonian as a social commentator, and freedom of expression is meant to be the lifeblood of our democracy. Clarke has mashed the crease before, singing controversial songs while holding his post. But with freedom of expression comes responsibility. Just as judges avoid public political statements and civil servants steer clear of partisan platforms, media leaders must guard their neutrality and credibility. The reputation of the station will always be bigger than one employee.
It’s unfortunate that the blurred lines must now be left to lawyers. Whatever happens, it’s clear the relationship between Clarke and Starcom is irretrievably fractured.
Barbados deserves both to coexist: the calypsonian and the media professional. But the peculiar case of Ronnie Clarke—Program Director and performer—is unique. This is the more dispassionate side of the issue not being fully discussed in the public space.
The blogmaster invites you to join and add value to the discussion.